Queen of Quirk--Fashion designer Masaba Gupta has created rage in the industry with her quirky prints, innovative choice of colours and brilliant designs

Alia Bhat in Masaba's creation

Ace designer Masaba Gupta has been the talk-of-the-town for a while now for her out-of-the-box clothes, quirky prints and an explosion of colours that often surface in her outfits.

What inspires you?

This time around my inspiration rooted from the classic Fitzgerald girl, meeting her sporty and edgy side.

Tell us about the cuts and fabrics you incorporated in your pieces…

In my latest collection, I used lots of tissues, ombre, organza, lycra, jersey silk and muslin. We had unconventional cuts mixed with really basic silhouettes like the braided sari with a palazzo pant instead of a petticoat; lots of sheer cover-ups and tiny crop tops with pencil skirts were well applauded too. The basic modus operandi was all about being sensual with an edge.

What is your design philosophy?

My design philosophy is all about being fearless and unapologetic about who you are and what your aesthetic values are.

What new techniques and materials are you using?

Off late we have been doing a lot of experiments with the sari; we had the lycra jumpsuit sari, wherein we put the pleats at the back instead of ahead. We also designed embellished organza sweatshirts and teamed up ribbed necklines on very delicate fabrics. Lastly, we also twisted the traditional Benarasi embroidery in silver and gold.

What does fashion mean to you?

Fashion for me is whatever that is convenient, whatever that gives you joy; it should uplift you and not be taken too seriously! Fashion should be fun.

During your formative years, who has been your muse?

My mother, Neena Gupta has been my muse and source of inspiration since forever.

What is the future of couture in India?

It is going places for sure. People are venturing into a different segment of haute couture besides just bridal. I know it for sure, couture in India is only going to get higher.  

What’s in the pipeline for your fans?

Well, a lot of brand collaborations and innovative ideas are in the pipeline.

Who is your favourite model?

Candice pinto is my most favourite model. She is supremely talented.

Any fashion brands that you really adore?

There are so many; but if I have to name a few, it would be Prada, Burberry, Michael Kors, Diane Von Furstenberg, Sabyasachi and Anamika Khanna.

What fashion trends do you foresee for the upcoming months?

Sheer monochrome and pops of neon will definitely lead the fashion sphere. Also sports are in so, ditch those heels and go crazy with the good old keds.

Tell us about your personal style.

Minimalist is my mantra and I am happiest in black and white.

What was your first design? Do you have any interesting anecdotes in the making of your first piece?

My first design was a patchwork sari. I made it in college and the teachers hated it because they didn’t understand why I had to use colour with black and white, which has now become my USP (smiles).

Best piece of style advice you ever received?

Just be yourself and no clothes can do to you what confidence does.

And what pieces of style advice you happily ignore?

You should follow trends – I choose to ignore this!

Way back when you were a student, what inspired you? How did you decide upon this career?

I was too busy trying to be someone else so it was all a fluke, rather an accidental twist of fate. I was inspired by labour class women and the rest is history.

Any words of wisdom for newcomers?

Just be original. Be a devotee of fashion but always have another love; this industry takes from you as much as it gives you. So embrace life as it comes.

Fashion & society. What’s your insight?

I feel fashion and society cannot function without each other’s presence.